CHAMPIONS Wilmslow suffered at the hands of a Burnage side that had everything to play for on the last day.

The Lexus-sponsored Wolves were also given a stern warning that strength in depth will be required to survive in North Two West next season.

Injuries to prop Tom Cruse and flanker Rich Williams contributed to a lacklustre performance against a team desperate to secure a play-off place, which they did in style, turning over the title winners with four tries and two conversions.

It looked like Wilmslow were still suffering from their title celebrations a week earlier.

"It’s a season that went on one week too long for us," said coach Darren Lucas. "We were suffering a hangover, and it showed. It’s very difficult for a team that has climbed the mountain to ront up against a side with it all to play for.

"Unfortunately we were already in summer mode against a team still chasing a play-off place. But that must not disguise the fact that, over the course of the season, we have achieved great things, reaching new levels of fitness and skill."

Now Lucas must embark on a summer of recruitment and preparation for a fresh challenge in North Two West against the likes of Broughton Park, New Brighton, Lymm, Vale of Lune, Winnington Park and Sandbach.